Molecular investigation of the prevalence of Sarcocystis spp. in Ground Beef from Aksaray Province

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the prevalence of Sarcocystis spp. in ground beef sold in Aksaray province using molecular methods. A total of 100 ground beef samples were collected from butcher shops and markets in different districts of Aksaray. Following DNA extraction

analyses were performed using conventional PCR targeting the 18S rRNA gene region. Sarcocystis spp. positivity was detected in 38% of the samples. The highest prevalence was observed in the Gülağaç and Ağaçören districts (50%)

while the lowest was in Güzelyurt (25%). The positivity rate was 40% in samples from butcher shops and 37.33% in those from markets. This study analyzed 100 samples

and statistical significance between variables was evaluated using the Chi-square test. The findings reveal that Sarcocystis infection is common in ground beef in Aksaray and may pose a public health risk. Avoiding the consumption of raw or undercooked meat is recommended.